Without doubt, Thailand has a fascinating history, culture and stunning scenery that appeal to all travellers around the world. Unlike Bangkok, Chiang Mai is the opposite of the bustling capital of Thailand. Chiang Mai is famous for its lush environment, relaxed atmosphere and picturesque landscape. Located at the northern Thailand, little did I know that this charming city was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. As the City is surrounded by mountains, you can expect a cooler climate especially between November to January. I personally think that the winter month period is the best time to visit Chiang Mai. I spend a week in the city to usher in the New Year and I did not regret my decision.
Getting to Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai International Airport offers hourly flights to and from Bangkok. I got a good deal using Mastercard for Thai Airways; from Singapore to Chiang Mai via Bangkok. If you are wondering if 1 hour layover at Bangkok is sufficient to get to the next connecting flight to Chiang Mai; the answer is YES!
Transportation to City
The airport is located a short distance from the city center. A licensed taxi counter is available at the airport to get you from the airport to your hotel near the city for 150 baht. Check with your hotel if they can provide complimentary airport transfer. I got mine for free! If you are looking for an English speaking driver for personal tour, I would recommend Joe from Chiang Mai Expert Driver. He will be more than happy to arrange the trip according to your preference.
Accommodations
There are plenty of accommodations to choose from in Chiang Mai. On my 1st leg of my trip, I stayed at Horizon Village & Resort located 45 minutes away from the city at Doi Saket district. If you like to be away from the hustle and bustle city life, this property is the perfect place to stay. The resort is situated inside the gates of Tweechol Botanical Gardens and if want to experience the Hot Air Balloon ride, the launch site is withing the hotel compound!
Click here for full review of Horizon Village & Hotel
Are you planning to celebrate the New Year and looking for a place closer to the Thapae Gate but away from the noisy street? I will recommend P21 Hotel Chiang Mai. Although the hotel is located at the back alley, it is just a 5 minutes walk to the Thapae Gate. There are only 21 rooms and you can definitely expect superb service from their staff!
Click here for full review of P21 Hotel Chiang Mai
Itinerary
My 7-day itinerary in Chiang Mai:
| Day 1 (Sat) | · Evening arrival to CNX
· Airport transfer to Horizon Village and Resort |
| Day 2 (Sun) | · Explore Tweechol Botanic Garden
· Night Market |
| Day 3 (Mon) | · Hot Air Balloon Ride
· Elephant Ride at Elephant Camp Pongyaeng · Wawee Coffee near Mae Sa Elephant Camp |
| Day 4 (Tue) | · Transfer to P21 Chiang Mai Hotel
· Lunch at Halal Street near Baan Haw Mosque · Wat Chedi Luang · 3 Kings Memorial |
| Day 5 (Wed) | · Art in Paradise
· Release sky lantern at Wat Buppharam · New Year’s eve celebration at Thapae Gate |
| Day 6 (Thu) | · Massage appointment at Fah Lanna Spa & Massage |
| Day 7 (Fri) | · CNX Airport Transfer |
Chiang Mai Travel Series | lonelytravelog.com
Lonely Travelog 
Chiang Mai is wonderful. It’s a laid back city with so many gorgeous temples, delicious foods, nice people and a way cooler than Bangkok. I think it’s one of the best city in Thailand as well. I did enjoy my visit in this city, and always recommend it to all my friends who want to spend a vacation a bit longer in Thailand. And for moslem, halal foods are relatively easier to be found here than in Bangkok 😊😊